The civic society objects to this application, although we support the redevelopment of this site for residential use as set out in the emerging Exeter Plan. The proposed design does not reflect the civic qualities, contextual approach and design/sustainability values required for such an important site location, and the applicant has not demonstrated an appropriate level of accommodation for future residents.
We are pleased that the applicant has referred to the emerging Exeter Plan policies because the emergence of co-living accommodation is a new form of accommodation not mentioned in the council’s outdated Core Strategy. We hope that Exeter City Planning Officers will give more weight to the emerging Exeter Plan policies for this application than the dated Core Strategy which is now over 13 years old. Our response explains why this is of substantial importance.
To summarize, in its current form, the proposal lacks the architectural quality, contextual sensitivity, sustainable ambition, and appropriate facilities required for such a significant site and use.
Our key concerns include:
Poor articulation of the corner site and public frontage
Inactive elevations
Overbearing and inappropriate massing
Superficial elevation treatment lacking contextual response
Weak housing mix and social inclusivity strategy
Inadequate dining and kitchen facilities
Inadequate servicing and management plans
Insufficient environmental and adaptability strategies
A lack of car parking for residents who need to use a car.
We request that this planning application is Refused, as significant revisions are needed to ensure this scheme becomes a positive and lasting contribution to the city.
You can find our full response here: https://exetercivicsociety.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ECS-letter-of-objection-redevelopment-Mary-Arches-Car-park.pdf